Sticky Carpet

By Marty Boulton

The inaugural St Kilda Blues Festival will take place across more than 20 venues and feature more than 60 performances, March 22 to 24, in what's already being celebrated by locals as a natural fit for St Kilda and a huge win for live music in Melbourne.

From opening night on Friday, March 22, when Buddy Knox kicks off the festival vibe at Good Love in Acland Street, to the mighty howling Werewolves of Melbourne at the Vineyard, and the not-to-be-missed Hoodoo Mayhem Band doing their New Orleans-style second line parade on Saturday evening and Sunday afternoon; this is good times for everyone with the blues at the heart of the matter.

St Kilda Blues Festival, March 22-24.Credit:Fred Negro

Dogs Bar owner and festival organiser Gavan Breen told Sticky in no uncertain terms "we're doing it for fun" and said he couldn't be happier to get his dream project up and running. "It is a labour of love," he said, adding there was enormous support from local venue owners, musicians and music lovers. "The festival has been several years in the planning, but it's been worth the wait because we'll have many of the great blues artists from the local area, players from across wider Melbourne and visiting blues players as well."

Some of the other bands performing live include Catfish Voodoo, Blues Club Revival, Jump Cats, Phil Manning, Kelly Auty Band, Geoff Achison, Ezra Lee Band, White Lightning, Phil Para Band and Christina Crofts Band. A yet to be revealed, All Star St Kilda Blues Band will play at the Prince of Wales on Sunday, March 24, from 9.30pm. For more details, playing times and participating venues, go to stkildabluesfestival.com.au and Facebook. Programs will also be available at participating venues and shops.

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selectaBeware of the Dogs - Stella DonnellyMake Way For Love - Marlon WilliamsStill Alive and Well - Johnny Winter